There is nothing better than testing the strength for scoring hoops before going into the game. Team USA realized it amid their early tune-up troubles, as they moved to the comeback of their explosive scorer, Kevin Durant. The Suns star was unable to attend the practice due to his calf strain earlier. However, on Friday, he appeared in the training camp to test his injury status while practicing for the game. Witnessing KD in the camp incited curiosity among the media personnel as they asked the veteran about his potentially “questionable” status ahead of the next game.

When the KDREW TV reporter asked Durant if he would be able to play on Saturday or Monday, KD responded, “I’m going to see after we have to practice today, just take it the daytime.” Durant‘s words resonated with that of the Dream Team’s coach, Steve Kerr, who told ESPN that the 35-year-old has to “take it day by day.” Notably, the Suns star suffered a calf injury in June this year while he was practicing at the workouts. Since the injury took place in the middle of the month, he was expected to be completely recovered by the time the exhibition started. However, it took longer than usual, and it even worried Durant himself as he confessed.

“You always had those concerns, but I see progress every day, “ KD shared how he was feeling, along with his approach towards overcoming it. Detailing his process of recovery, he further added, “It’s one of those things you just got to monitor every day and I see how I feel after I do certain movements and certain exercises. But my thing is just keep working and see what happens.”

Nonetheless, it’ll be worth watching where Steve Kerr puts him in play once KD steps onto the O2 Arena on July 20.

Will Kevin Durant be a starter on Team USA if he makes it to the court in the next couple of games?

With potential chances of Kevin Durant making it back to Team USA after the Friday practice, there are speculations about his position on the Dream Team roster. The first thought that rushes to the mind at this juncture is the starting lineup combos. Coach Kerr has been continuously experimenting to find the best starter tune-up. But it hasn’t fit right yet. In all of the last three exhibition games, Team USA’s start was slow.

So, it can be assumed that Kerr will go for a veteran like Durant to assist LeBron on the starting roster to make plays easier. Also, KD’s presence as a scorer might fit well with the profile. But such allocation leaves the fifth spot vacant with contenders like Jrue Holiday and Anthony Edwards to fill. Ant-Man has been an acknowledged force in these exhibition games so far with his 13-point spree that he delivered against Canada.

Also, Curry would be a great addition to the starting roster with his ability to shoot from the arc, getting assists from Durant and James. But it all depends on when KD returns to the court. What are your thoughts on this lineup and Durant’s redemption? Comment down your thoughts.